‘Haunted Beach with Buried Treasure’ Is the ‘Best Place’ to Spend Memorial Day & You Can Even Watch the Swamp Rainbow Phenomenon

CHANGE things up this Memorial Day weekend and visit a beach where you can find treasure and a swamp rainbow all in one trip.

First Landing State Park located in Virginia Beach, Virginia is not just a state park; it is a living museum, a sanctuary for wildlife and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

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First Landing State Park was named one of the best places for families to visit during Memorial weekend, according to a MaxTour study last week.

“Coming in first place, this park offers 20 miles of trails and 1.5 miles of sandy beach on the Chesapeake Bay,” Maximum Ride said from the park.

“Perfect for walks, picnics and beach fun in a picturesque setting.”

First Landing State Park is situated along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.

The park’s 1.8 miles of beach provide stunning scenery—it spans more than 2,888 acres and is a haven of ecological diversity.

It has a variety of ecosystems, including lush coastal forests, serene wetlands, lagoons and sand dunes.

WHAT TO DO DURING A VISIT

One of its most unique features is the cypress swamps, where winding trees emerge from the water, creating an otherworldly landscape.

The cypress swamp is said to feel like entering an ancient, hidden kingdom.

If you plan your visit correctly, you can witness the mesmerizing sight of a swamp rainbow.

The swamp rainbow is a remarkable phenomenon caused by the release of oils from decaying vegetation that is illuminated by perfect lighting conditions.

The park offers more than 30 kilometers of trails that wind through varied terrain, such as lakes, rivers and waterfalls.

You can go cycling or take part in an educational program about the park.

Paying a visit to the beach is another great option to spend the day.

WHERE TO STAY

The Cape Henry Trail, the longest in the park, is a favorite with hikers and cyclists, providing glimpses of the bay and forest.

Canoeing and fishing are also popular here, with the calm waters offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

If you plan to spend the night at First Landing State Park, you will need to stay in a campsite, cabin, or yurt.

There are 200 campsites and some are located near the water.

You can stay in a hotel, but you will need to drive to Virginia Beach, which is about 30 minutes away.

There are dozens of hotel options in Virginia Beach.

TREASURE/HAUNTED

In the 1700s, merchant ships and naval vessels were docked at First Landing State Park and searched for pirates.

A famous pirate named Captain Edward J. Teach, also known as Blackbeard, often came to the area.

Legend has it that Blackbeard was raiding a merchant ship one night when a Navy ship spotted him, so his men hid all the treasure in the sand dunes.

People try to look for treasure in the sand dunes to this day.

Blackbeard was also captured and beheaded at First Landing State Park.

Blackbeard’s ghost is believed to haunt the park.

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